Study midwifery while you work and take the next step in your clinical practice.
The Graduate Certificate in Midwifery (SA Health Clinical Specialisation) at Adelaide University is designed for midwives employed by SA Health and endorsed by their employer to study. Learn from academic staff who are experts in their specialty area and gain practical skills that you can apply in your current role.
You’ll study two postgraduate courses aligned with key areas of practice, such as high-acuity care, perinatal mental health, leadership, teaching or clinical decision-making. All learning is directly connected to your professional role and workplace.
Eligible students can access a scholarship covering the cost of their first course. High-achieving students may also receive further funding through the SA Health Recognising Academic Achievement Scholarship to complete the full qualification.
This graduate certificate also provides credit into the Master of Midwifery, if you wish to continue your studies in midwifery practice, education or leadership.
The Graduate Certificate in Midwifery (SA Health Clinical Specialisation) at Adelaide University is designed exclusively for SA Health-employed midwives endorsed by their employer to study. This program is part of a supported pathway that allows midwives to build specialist knowledge while continuing to work.
Delivered part-time and fully online, you’ll study two postgraduate courses focused on areas like high-acuity care, perinatal mental health, clinical decision-making, leadership and more. The program links theory directly to your clinical setting, helping you apply new skills immediately.
Eligible students can access SA Health scholarships to fund one or both courses. Graduates may also receive credit toward the Master of Midwifery, offering a seamless transition to further advanced study.
Taught by experienced academics and researchers, this graduate certificate helps strengthen your skills in healthcare and expands your future career options.
Advance your midwifery practice while working in a clinical setting. Learn from academic staff with expertise in specialist midwifery areas. Study 100% online over six months while continuing your current employment. Build industry relationships and learn from experienced clinicians and acclaimed researchers. Gain knowledge in areas such as high-acuity midwifery or perinatal mental health. Receive credit into the Master of Midwifery at Adelaide University. In the Graduate Certificate in Midwifery (SA Health Clinical Specialisation) you’ll complete two postgraduate courses from a list of midwifery and health specialisations. Each course is directly linked to current clinical priorities and challenges in the healthcare industry.
During your six months of study, you can select two courses from a range of options including:
When you complete this graduate certificate, you’ll be eligible to receive 18 units of advanced standing into the Master of Midwifery. This flexible structure allows you to focus on the areas most relevant to your workplace and career goals.
You’ll graduate with advanced knowledge to support safe, evidence-based and person-centred care throughout the pregnancy journey.
Complete 24 units comprising:
Complete 24 units comprising:
The Graduate Certificate in Midwifery (SA Health Clinical Specialisation) at Adelaide University allows experienced midwives to extend their skills to a more advanced level within clinical settings.
You might take on a greater leadership role in your current midwifery team. You could specialise in areas like perinatal mental health or high-acuity midwifery to better support complex patient cases. Or perhaps you’ll use this qualification as a first step towards postgraduate study in advanced midwifery practice.
You’ll be well placed to work across a range of healthcare environments, including:
By linking postgraduate learning with real clinical experience, this graduate certificate supports your professional growth while you remain in the workforce. You can also use it as a stepping stone to the Master of Midwifery, where you’ll deepen your expertise in midwifery education, policy, practice or research.
With midwives playing a vital role in safe, evidence-based care, this qualification helps you stay up-to-date with the latest knowledge and continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of women, babies and families.
Industry trends
Australia’s midwifery workforce faces significant challenges, including staffing shortages and high attrition rates, particularly in regional areas. The 2024 Midwifery Futures report highlights these issues and outlines strategies to strengthen the profession (Midwifery Futures, 2024).
Additionally, the Australian Government's Future Health Workforce report (2019) projects increasing demand for midwives through 2030, emphasising the need for sustainable workforce planning.
These trends underscore the importance of advanced training programs like this graduate certificate at Adelaide University, to prepare midwives for evolving healthcare needs into the future.
Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
